Sevenoaks Town have announced the departure of First Team Manager Harry Hudson who has stepped away from his role to explore opportunities in professional football.
Hudson had been working behind the scenes with the Sevenoaks Board for several weeks to facilitate a seamless transition and to appoint a new manager.
Hudson said: “It has been a huge honour to manage this fantastic community football club. Earning 26 out of a possible 30 points when I first took over to secure Step 4 status was an unbelievable achievement and we created memories during that run that will stay with me forever.”
“Last season we made history in reaching the furthest the Club has been in both the FA Cup and FA Trophy whilst also achieving the highest Step 4 league position. The win away to Bath City was phenomenal and to earn the right to go toe to toe with Ebbsfleet in the next round was one of my most enjoyable matches I have ever managed.”
“I would like to thank the Board, especially Paul Lansdale, for their unwavering support throughout my tenure – I truly believe I will never work under better people in football”
His replacement is Mark Dacey, Hudson’s Assistant Manager, and will be assisted by Junior James and Adam Flemming along with the rest of the existing backroom staff – Danny Rose, Julian Leigh, Kevin Rawlinson and Carly Payne.
Speaking on being appointed Dacey said: “I’m honoured to be passed the baton with massive shoes for me to fill. It’s a huge confidence boost that the chairman is happy for me to take over from Harry. I will look to add my own stamp on to what Harry has already created, we want to continue to be a free flowing attacking side who compete for the play offs. I’ve got a great group of players and staff, we have enough in our changing room to help achieve our goals.”
On Harry Hudson, Dacey commented: “I’m extremely grateful to have worked with him, he’s become a life long friend and I’m proud that he’s finally taking a opportunity to explore different avenues of the game. He’s created a stable culture and philosophy at Sevenoaks, a massive credit to what he’s achieved in breaking club records in such a small period.”
Chairman Paul Lansdale added: “There’s always a beer waiting for Harry, as well as Dan Hogan who also departs for a great opportunity to spread his wings. Another great coach and person that we will all miss around the place.
The club now looks forward to a new chapter for the Men’s First Team under the management of Mark.”
